Chronic invalidation is a term used to describe a situation in which a person’s emotions, thoughts, and experiences are repeatedly dismissed or ignored. This can happen in a variety of contexts, including in relationships, at work, or within families. Chronic invalidation can lead to a range of mental health issues, but it can also have physical consequences. In this article, we’ll explore how chronic invalidation can lead to chronic health issues and what can be done to address this problem.

What is Chronic Invalidation?

Chronic invalidation is a form of emotional abuse that can take many different forms. It can involve a partner who dismisses their partner’s feelings, a boss who ignores the contributions of their employees, or a parent who tells their child that their emotions are wrong. When someone is repeatedly invalidated, it can erode their sense of self-worth and cause them to doubt their own experiences. Over time, this can lead to chronic health issues.

Chronic Health Issues Caused by Chronic Invalidation

Chronic invalidation can have a profound impact on a person’s physical health. There is evidence to suggest that chronic invalidation can indeed have physical consequences on a person’s health. A study published in the Journal of Trauma & Dissociation found that chronic invalidation was associated with increased somatic symptoms, or physical symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems.

Chronic invalidation can also contribute to chronic stress, which has been linked to a range of physical health issues. A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that individuals who experienced high levels of stress at work had a 48% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a type of heart arrhythmia, compared to those who reported low levels of stress at work.

Another study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine found that individuals who reported high levels of stress had higher levels of inflammation in their bodies, which is a risk factor for a range of chronic health issues including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Chronic stress has also been linked to digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach ulcers, and acid reflux. In a study published in the journal Gut, researchers found that individuals who reported high levels of stress had a greater risk of developing IBS.

In terms of addressing chronic invalidation, research suggests that therapy and counseling can be helpful. A study published in the journal Psychotherapy found that individuals who received cognitive behavioral therapy for childhood emotional abuse and neglect showed significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

These feelings can trigger a range of physiological responses, such as an increase in cortisol, the stress hormone. This increase in cortisol can cause a range of health problems, including:

1. Heart Disease: Chronic stress can cause high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease. It can also cause inflammation, which is another risk factor for heart disease.
2. Digestive Problems: Chronic stress can cause a range of digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach ulcers, and acid reflux.
3. Headaches: Chronic stress can cause tension headaches, which can be debilitating.
4. Insomnia: Chronic stress can cause insomnia, which can lead to a range of health problems, including depression, anxiety, and a weakened immune system.
5. Weakened Immune System: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making a person more susceptible to illness and disease.

What Can be Done to Address Chronic Invalidation?

If you’re experiencing chronic invalidation, it’s important to take steps to address the problem. This may involve seeking therapy or counseling to work through the emotional trauma that you’ve experienced. It may also involve setting boundaries with the people who are invalidating you, such as by telling them how their behavior is impacting you and what you need from them.

In addition to addressing the emotional trauma of chronic invalidation, there are also physical steps that you can take to manage your stress levels. These may include:

1. Exercise: Exercise is a great way to manage stress and improve your physical health.
2. Meditation: Meditation can help to calm your mind and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
3. Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is essential for managing stress. This may involve getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
4. Support System: Having a support system can help you to feel less alone and provide you with the emotional support that you need.

In Conclusion

Chronic invalidation is a serious problem that can have a range of physical and mental health consequences. If you’re experiencing chronic invalidation, it’s important to take steps to address the problem and seek out the support that you need. By taking care of your emotional and physical health, you can improve your overall well-being and reduce the risk of chronic health issues.